UCLA running back battle is heating up

LOS ANGELES -- There may not be a highly-publicized quarterback battle this spring like there was in Mora’s first season. But with Johnathan Franklin now gone from the Bruins’ backfield, there is certain to be another wide-open offensive battle in the UCLA coach’s second spring camp.

And with five potential candidates up for the running back job – Damien Thigpen, Steven Manfro, Paul Perkins, Jordon James, and walk-on Malcolm Jones – there’s no telling who will tote the rock for UCLA in the fall.

“It’s always good for the program when you’ve got some depth and you’ve got talent, so that’s the good, encouraging thing,” UCLA running backs coach Steve Broussard said. “It’s unfortunate that we’ve got a few guys out in Manfro (shoulder) and Thigpen (ACL), but it gives those other guys opportunities to see what they can do.”

James was tabbed the starter heading into the spring, but it’s a title that doesn’t mean a whole lot at this point, Broussard explained.

“It’s hard to say that (James) has established himself because you’ve got Thigpen down, you’ve got a couple of good guys that are down,” Broussard said. “But at the same time, his opportunity is there. It matters what he does with that opportunity. It’s encouraging to see he’s taken on a leadership role, and he’s taken the bull by the horns and run with it.”

User Agreement

Keep it civil and stay on topic. No profanity, vulgarity, racial
slurs or personal attacks. People who harass others or joke about
tragedies will be blocked. By posting your comment, you agree to
allow Orange County Register Communications, Inc. the right to
republish your name and comment in additional Register publications
without any notification or payment.